Is Wind Insurance Required in Florida?

Heavy winds are among the most damaging weather-related perils and can wreak havoc on your home and property, leading to potentially devastating financial losses. These dangerous conditions may be brought by hurricanes, tornadoes and other severe storms, and may even occur on their own. Given how common wind-related incidents may be and the extent of the damage you may accrue, it’s essential to understand wind insurance fully.

What Is Wind Insurance?

As its name suggests, wind insurance is a type of property coverage that provides a financial safety net for damage arising from wind-related events. Generally, wind insurance functions similarly to other types of insurance. By keeping up with your premiums, you can access financial assistance for covered losses up to your policy’s limits and minus any applicable deductibles.

This coverage, also known as windstorm insurance, is not necessarily included in standard homeowners insurance policies, so it is essential to check to ensure you do not need a separate policy. In Florida, property insurers should provide windstorm insurance unless an exception applies. Affiliated Agency of Ocala can help you determine if you have windstorm coverage.

Do I Need Wind Insurance?

Wind insurance is typically not required by law; however, as a component of standard homeowners coverage, it may be an obligation for those who have financed their home.

In coastal areas like much of Florida, you may also be required to carry specific hurricane coverage either as an endorsement of your homeowners insurance or as a standalone policy. Coverage for hurricanes may often carry its own deductible, meaning that wind-related losses during one of these tropical storms could mean additional out-of-pocket costs even if you have already met your general homeowners insurance deductible.

Even without laws or lender mandates requiring wind insurance, this coverage should be considered a top priority for those in areas prone to hurricanes and other wind-related events. Without adequate insurance, you may lack the resources to repair your home, replace your belongings or otherwise limit out-of-pocket financial losses.

How Much Does Wind Insurance Cost?

Given that wind insurance is often a part of standard homeowners policies, many of the factors that determine your premiums may be similar, such as the following:

• Location
• Construction details (e.g., age of home and building materials used)
• Valuable assets and belongings
• Prior claims history
• Policy details (e.g., coverage limits and deductibles)

Get the Right Coverage

Wind-related incidents can have a catastrophic impact on your property and finances. Whether they are born from a hurricane, tornado or other weather event, they cannot be underestimated. During certain events, such as hurricanes, you may be required to evacuate your home before properly safeguarding windows, doors and other vulnerable parts of your property.

We’re here to help. With a history of local service dating back over 30 years, the dedicated coverage professionals at Affiliated Agency of Ocala are well-equipped to help you understand and address your wind insurance needs. We will work with you to assess your circumstances and assemble optimal policies. Contact us today to get started.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.